Answers for property owners
Why Is It Worth Hiring a Good Agent? For Results, Which Translate into More Net Proceeds
It is not about the lowest commission, but about the net you are left with once the home is sold.
SHORT ANSWER
A good agent, even if they cost more, can leave you with more net: better marketing attracts more buyers, more offers in less time give you more negotiating power and fewer months of upkeep costs. In a recent case, a home that refused €400,000 after six months sold for €445,000 in a week.
IN THIS ARTICLE
As they say, cheap turns out expensive. In real estate too. Here is the logic and a real case from last month.
The logic: time is money
Better marketing attracts more customers; more customers mean more interest and more offers; and more offers in less time give you more negotiating power to get a better price and cut the cost of holding the property.
Is it good for a home to be on the market for a long time with little activity? No. It goes stale and ends up selling later at the same market price, but with many more months of costs and opportunity cost. If the owner is in no rush and is not willing to reach the price the sale requires, it is better to take the home off the market before it goes stale.
A real case
A home for sale in Marbella at €420,000. After more than six months on the market, the agent receives an offer of €400,000 that the owner refuses, despite the agent’s pressure, which breaks the trust between them. The owner comes to our team.
It sold at the asking price, €445,000: €45,000 more than the refused offer, not counting the saving of six months of utilities, community fees, IBI and repairs.
Any property sells if a good job is done maximising the price and reducing the time to sell.
Alfonso Lacruz
See also the advantages of an exclusive agreement, the comparative analysis and professional photography.
Frequently asked questions
Is a more expensive agent worth it?
It can be, if they get you a higher price in less time. The commission is only one part of the net you are left with.
How do I know if my agent is doing a good job?
By the plan, the reports on viewings and offers, and how clearly they explain the price and the market to you.
What do I do if my home has been for sale for a long time?
Review the price, the photos and the marketing. Sometimes it is worth relaunching it with a new approach.
Can I sell without an agent?
You can, but you take on the price, marketing, viewings, negotiation and paperwork yourself.
About the author
Alfonso Lacruz
Naval engineer and market analyst. Over 25 years advising owners in Marbella and Benahavís. Publishes a monthly market analysis with Land Registry data.
Every case is different: before you sign or decide, confirm your situation with your own lawyer, notary or tax adviser.
Sources: Real case from Alfonso Lacruz Team | KW, anonymised data. Last updated: 24 October 2026.
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